Massage Isn't Just for the Day Spa
You don’t need to feel like you’re indulging yourself with a luxury treatment in order to get massage therapy. Massage can do wonders in conjunction with your pain management treatment program.
As children, the soft touch of a healing hand from our parents can help ease the pain of a banged knee or bumped head. Therapeutic touch as an adult can offer the same benefit. The benefits of massage in treating chronic pain have been demonstrated throughout history. Swedish and Chinese massage have been popular for centuries.
Massage benefits our bodies by increasing blood flow to sore, stiff joints and muscles. Some studies have shown that massage can also trigger the release of opioids, the body’s natural pain killers.
Besides the pure physical benefits, massage also generally relaxes us. Easing mental and physical tension goes a long way toward easing chronic physical pain, as we focus less on the pain and more on the sensation of being calm and relaxed.
Proper technique is key: always see a licensed massage therapy professional who is experienced in using correct massage technique. If you are currently undergoing treatment from a pain management specialist, consult with your doctor before beginning a massage therapy program. Your doctor may even advise you to seek out such treatment if it is appropriate for you.
Massage isn’t just for the rich and indulgent. You can find experienced, licensed massage therapists almost anywhere to help you manage chronic pain.
